Tag Archives: RV travel

10 Pro Tips For Planning Your Trip In 2024

07 Wednesday Feb 2024

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A new year is here, and that means a whole new year of fun RV adventures awaits! Many people use these colder months to start their RV trip planning for the spring and summer. Why not join them in getting excited for warmer weather, outdoor adventures, and time spent around the campfire?

Not sure how to begin your RV trip planning? No worries, we’re here to help. Below, we will give you our top tips for planning amazing RV travels for the upcoming camping season.

Choosing Where to Go

First things first, you have to decide where you want to go. If you aren’t the type to stick around your home and stay in the campground for the entire trip, this can be a bit overwhelming. There is so much out there to explore, and picking just a few options can feel nearly impossible. Here are some ways to narrow down your options.

Plan Around Your Bucket List

Do you have an ongoing list of things you’d like to do and places you’d like to see? Use this list to guide your travels. Pick the options that matter most to you and do your best to work toward those trips. If your top picks simply aren’t feasible right now, you can also choose a few that are within the realm of possibility and start planning those trips.

Stick to Your Budget

Obviously, you will want to keep your travel budget in mind. If you need to keep things inexpensive, staying relatively close to home might be your best bet. You can also consider trying boondocking to save on camping fees or pick destinations with lots of free things to do and see. If you have a senior national parks pass, national parks can be an incredibly affordable camping destination.

Follow Friends

Have friends who enjoy RVing as well? If you really can’t decide what to do, you might ask them what their plans are. Camping is always more fun with friends, and planning a few trips with your RV friends will remove the need to choose a destination, and it helps ensure you have an amazing time no matter where you end up going.

Mind the Weather

Weather is an important factor when planning an RV trip. Staying in an RV when it is extremely hot or cold outside simply isn’t comfortable, and not being able to get outside because of constant rain can leave you feeling cooped up. We recommend looking for destinations that, if possible, will offer sunny weather with very little rain and no extreme temperatures.

Picking a Route

How you get where you’re going is important when you’re traveling by RV. You’ll need to consider which route is the safest for your big rig and which roads will be downright impossible for your larger vehicle to navigate. You’ll also want to look at what there is to do and see along whatever route you end up choosing.

Put Tools to Use

Luckily, there are tools that can help you choose an RV-friendly route. RV Trip Wizard is one such tool, and it does an excellent job of showing safe routes using the info you give on the size of your RV. It can also show you places to camp, get gas, and stop for sightseeing along the way.

We do recommend cross-checking any route RV Trip Wizard gives against a Trucker’s Atlas to ensure it truly is a good route for big rigs. While RV Trip Wizard is pretty fantastic at choosing good routes, it is not without faults, so double-checking is always a good idea.

Add Destinations

If you’re driving a long way to reach your destination, it just makes sense to add in some stops to see and do things along the way. RV Trip Wizard can help you find fun stops, as can Roadtrippers.

Google Maps can also be helpful if you have an idea of what sort of attraction you’re looking for. Just type it in and see what pops up along your route on the map.

Getting Trip Ready

Once you know where you’re going and the route you want to take, you’ll need to ensure you’re 100% ready to hit the road. Here’s what you need to do to get ready now so you can hit the road as soon as the warm weather rolls in.

Make Key Purchases

You might need to make some purchases before you hit the road. If you plan to do more boondocking than usual, a solar setup or generator might be needed. Certain outdoor adventures will require gear like kayaks, hiking boots, and so on. It’s also a good idea to check and make sure your RV roadside assistance is up to date and that you’re still comfortable with your insurance plan.

Get the RV Ready

Additionally, you’ll want to make sure all of your RV maintenance is done so your rig is in tip-top shape and ready to hit the road. Reseal the roof and side seams, check the slide seals, take a look at the tires replace any that need it, and make sure all of your appliances are in good working order. This will help ensure your first trip out goes off without a hitch and you can fully enjoy your entire camping season.

There you go! Everything you need to know to start your RV trip planning for 2024. Now start planning and getting excited so you can jump into the camping season feet-first when the warmer weather rolls in!

May contain affiliate links.

About the author: Chelsea Gonzales

Chelsea has the amazing opportunity to take part in full-time RV living and traveling with her tiny tribe. She homeschools her five-year-old son as they travel, and takes full advantage of their unique situation by using the entire world as her son’s classroom. A group of total Disney fanatics, Chelsea and her family often find themselves in the Orlando area in order to visit the Disney parks, but they have also visited over 25 of the 50 states with plans to see many more along the way. No matter where her travels take her, Chelsea enjoys riding bikes, gazing at beautiful sunsets, finding new coffee shops, Irish dancing, and sitting around a campfire with her family.

You can join her adventures through her blog, Wonder Wherever We Wander.

Douglas M. ~ “The concern displayed by the call agent was awesome. The response was fast by the service provider and was terrific. Thanks so very much for this fantastic coverage!” 

Letting Your Kids Plan Your RV Travels!

10 Wednesday Jan 2024

Posted by in Kids and Camping

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One of the best things about traveling with kids? The opportunity to teach them new things while you explore the world around you. This can be done by visiting museums, historic sites, and national parks, but you can also start learning before you ever leave home by giving your kids a chance to plan your RV travels.

That’s right, we are suggesting you allow your little ones to decide where you’re going to take your RV and what you’re going to do when you get there!

That said, we aren’t suggesting you let them loose with no direction whatsoever. Instead, you can give them some limits and instructions and then give them the freedom to make responsible decisions. This is an excellent way to work on budgeting, planning, problem-solving, geography, and more.

Set a Budget

First and foremost, you will want to decide on a budget. How much can this RV trip cost in total? Once you know that, sit down with your kids and discuss average campground fees and attraction fees to decide how to allocate those funds. Write down each line item you need to account for and how much you have set aside for each, and make sure those numbers are visible for the kids to see.

If you have very young children, it might help to provide a physical representation of the funds. LEGO bricks work well for this. Decide how much each block represents, create a stack for each budget line item, and remove the blocks as they have been “spent” throughout the planning process.

Pick a Place

Once your kids know what kind of budget they’re working with and what they need to plan to pay for, help them decide where to go.

Very young kids may need you to provide a list of options, along with a sneak peek of what is available to see and do in each place. Older kids can do the math to figure out how many miles they can drive on the gas budget they have (remind them to account for the return trip!), after which they can circle the radius they’re working with on a map and consider the towns within that circle to decide on a destination.

If your big kids aren’t sure what to expect of the towns in the radius they’re given, encourage them to do a bit of research to discover what kinds of attractions each one has to offer before they make a decision. Let them know that bigger towns and cities are generally printed bigger on the map and tend to have more options in terms of attractions. You might also remind them to keep an eye out for national parks, which can be in the middle of nowhere but tend to be amazing RV destinations.

Offer Tools

With a destination picked out, the next steps involve choosing a campsite as well as deciding which things to see and do. Your little travel planners will need some tools for this step, but unless your kids are pretty old and responsible, we highly recommend supervising them as they read reviews and gather information online.

Campendium is a good tool for finding campsites. Have your child type in the place they plan to visit and they will get a whole collection of camping options presented to them. From there, they can narrow their options based on a budget and then choose based on reviews and amenities offered. Of course, little ones who cannot read will need you to help with this by typing and reading for them, but you can still present them with options.

As far as attractions go, you can use Google or Trip Advisor to search for options in the area and read reviews. When your kids find something they want to do, have them write it down along with notes on why they want to visit and then find the admission cost for the entire family. Once they have a good list put together, allow each child to pick a certain number of attractions, reminding them to stay within budget.

It might help to split the attraction budget evenly between your kids, so each child has the same amount to spend on attractions.

Introduce Money Saving Ideas

Remind your kids that while they are welcome to spend every dollar in the budget, they can also save in one budget category in order to move money over to another category, or even save that money for a future trip. If they seem into this, offer some money-saving suggestions.

If you have any reciprocal memberships (ASTC, AZA, etc) let them know that, and give them a list of attractions included with the membership. Let them know that some towns offer free attractions such as small museums, parks, and even zoos. Have them look for national historic sites, which are sometimes free, and find the library calendar for the area to find free events.

You can also show them how to find free camping options on Campendium by filtering their search by cost. Just make sure they are aware that choosing a boondocking site will mean making some sacrifices.

Ask Questions and Create an Itinerary

Once your kids have a campground chosen and a list of attractions picked out, have them present it to you. Ask them questions about why they chose what they did, what they plan to do when you get there, etc. If you foresee problems with their selections, let them know that and see if they can come up with a solution.

Once you’ve gone over the plan together and it seems solid, have the kids sit down and write out an itinerary. Remind them that you will need some downtime each day and that driving from one attraction to the next does take time. Generally, it’s best to only visit one attraction each day, but we know this isn’t always possible.

This is also the point where you will need to book the campsite they’ve selected. If it’s an online booking process, you can walk your kids through it, allowing them to make all of the selections along the way.

Pack Everything Up

Finally, your kids will need to pack everything up. We recommend handing them a printed RV packing list and then allowing them to start gathering things, crossing them off as they go.

If you want to take it a step further, you might also let your kids create a simple meal plan and grocery list. Have them choose foods they can help make so they can take full ownership of this aspect of trip planning as well.

May contain affiliate links.

About the author: Chelsea Gonzales

Chelsea has the amazing opportunity to take part in full-time RV living and traveling with her tiny tribe. She homeschools her five-year-old son as they travel, and takes full advantage of their unique situation by using the entire world as her son’s classroom. A group of total Disney fanatics, Chelsea and her family often find themselves in the Orlando area in order to visit the Disney parks, but they have also visited over 25 of the 50 states with plans to see many more along the way. No matter where her travels take her, Chelsea enjoys riding bikes, gazing at beautiful sunsets, finding new coffee shops, Irish dancing, and sitting around a campfire with her family.

You can join her adventures through her blog, Wonder Wherever We Wander.

Sarah M. ~ “Coach-Net is, to this day, the best service available”

Your Guide To Camping In The Everglades

18 Monday Dec 2023

Posted by in The Great Outdoors, Tips & Tricks, Travel Destinations

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Winter is here, meaning those of us who prefer to camp year-round are heading south so we can keep warm. One of the options? Camping in the Everglades!

Located in southern Florida, the Everglades offer a lovely, warm escape from winter snow and ice, as well as some seriously beautiful plants and animals. Here you can enjoy the great outdoors without even breaking out a coat, and you won’t have to worry one bit about winterizing your RV.

Not sure how to begin planning your trip to go camping in the Everglades? Here’s what you need to know.

Best Spots for Camping in the Everglades

First, let’s talk about the best places to stay while camping in the Everglades. These campgrounds are perfect for RVers and offer easy access to all of the amazing things the Everglades have to offer, as well as plenty of amenities to keep you comfortable.

Long Pine Key Campground

Offering both reserved sites and first-come, first-served sites, Long Pine Key Campground is located in Everglades National Park, meaning you’ll be able to reach all the park has to offer quickly and easily. The sites here do not include any kind of hookups, but there is potable water, a dump station, and a restroom with showers.

Flamingo Campground

Want to have hookups while staying in the national park? Flamingo Campground is the perfect place for that. This campground has 27/4 campsites and 41 of those offer electric hookups. There are also dump stations, solar-heated showers, and potable water available onsite. Just be sure you make a reservation in advance!

Midway Campground

If you don’t mind staying outside of the park, Midway Campground in Big Cypress National Preserve is another good option. This campground is about 30 minutes away from Everglades National Park and offers electric hookups, potable water, a dump station, restrooms, and easy access to all the area has to offer.

Our Favorite Things to Do in the Everglades

Now that you know where to stay, the next question is what to do while camping in the Everglades. Luckily there are plenty of options, and it would be really hard to get bored while visiting this amazing place.

Explore the Visitor Centers

I always recommend visiting visitor centers when visiting national parks, and this is just as true in Everglades National Park as it is anywhere else. In my opinion it’s best to start at a visitor center, as this will introduce you to the park and all it has to offer. If you can, visit more than one center, as each one has unique exhibits and different information to offer.

The visitor centers in the park include:

  • Gulf Coast Visitor Center
  • Shark Valley Visitor Center
  • Ernest Coe Visitor Center
  • Royal Palm Visitor Center
  • Flamingo Visitor Center

Take a Hike (or a Stroll)

The best way to really connect with the Florida Everglades? Go on a hike or a walk. This allows you to get up close and personal with the amazing plants and animals that call the park home. We especially love the Anhinga Trail, which puts you on a boardwalk through the wetlands. There are a wide variety of birds found along the path at any given time, and often you will find alligators sunbathing along the way as well.

Attend Ranger Programs

Ranger programs are always a good way to learn more about any given national park. In Everglades National Park, we really like the nighttime ranger walk along the Anhinga Trail. Because it takes place at night, this walk often allows guests to see alligators in their most active state, something you certainly won’t soon forget.

Hop on an Airboat

No trip to the Everglades is complete without a ride in an airboat. Yes, these boats are loud, but the airboat tours offered in the Everglades give you the opportunity to go where visitors cannot normally go while seeing all kinds of awesome animals in the beautiful wetlands.

…or Opt for a Tram (or a Bike)

Don’t want to ride an airboat? You could hop on the Shark Valley tram instead. This tram takes you on a tour of the park, so you can see lots of awesome scenery in a short amount of time.

Alternatively, you can ride a bike along the Shark Valley Tram Road to see the same awesome scenery at your own pace while getting some exercise.

As you can see, camping in the Everglades is an awesome experience that every RVer should have at least once. Why not start planning your trip today?

About the author: Chelsea Gonzales

Chelsea has the amazing opportunity to take part in full-time RV living and traveling with her tiny tribe. She homeschools her five-year-old son as they travel, and takes full advantage of their unique situation by using the entire world as her son’s classroom. A group of total Disney fanatics, Chelsea and her family often find themselves in the Orlando area in order to visit the Disney parks, but they have also visited over 25 of the 50 states with plans to see many more along the way. No matter where her travels take her, Chelsea enjoys riding bikes, gazing at beautiful sunsets, finding new coffee shops, Irish dancing, and sitting around a campfire with her family.

You can join her adventures through her blog, Wonder Wherever We Wander.

Dickie N. ~ “You had us on the road within two hours on Christmas day! The follow-up by Coach-Net to assure we were taken care of was great! Thank you!”

What You Need To Know About Towing Capacity

06 Wednesday Dec 2023

Posted by in RV Information, RV Safety, Tech Tips, Tips & Tricks

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One of the most popular questions I get is “What can my truck actually tow?” It ranks just below my refrigerator isn’t cooling, my batteries are dead, my roof air conditioner isn’t running efficiently, and my slide room doesn’t work. OK, so it’s in my top five but I do get it asked quite often!

In the past, we could just look up towing capacity in the Trailer Life towing guide or the truck manufacturer towing guide. As long as we knew the cab configuration, bed length, and engine size, we could get the towing capacity at the tip of our fingers.

Then The Math Changed!

Somewhere around 2010, Toyota came out with the first half-ton truck that had a towing capacity of 10,000 lbs while all the others were at 5-7,000 lbs. My 2002 Silverado had a towing capacity of 5,000 lbs which meant I did not have a very large selection of trailers that I could tow. Truck manufacturers scrambled to reclassify towing capacity using the new math Toyota had developed. My 2002 had a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 7,000 lbs and the towing capacity was 5,000 lbs which meant I had a Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) of 12,000 lbs. The new math is taking GCWR and subtracting the Unloaded Vehicle Weight (UVW) which is an empty truck and adding a 150 lb driver to determine towing capacity. This shifts payload weight from the tow vehicle to the trailer towing weight. Here is an example; my 2016 has a GVWR of 11,500 lbs and has a dry weight of 5,730 lbs. This means I could theoretically put 5,770 lbs of cargo into this truck which would include any passengers and cargo which is a lot of “stuff” I can bring. So with the new math, we take the 5,730 lbs of dry weight, add a 150 lb driver and it comes to 5,880 lbs, subtract it from the 11,300 lb GVWR and we have 5,620 lbs of extra weight that can be added or shifted to the trailer towing capacity. In the past, you could load your tow truck up to GVWR and then tow the published towing capacity.

What Is The Truth?

It’s hard to wade through all the postings, forums, and blogs when it comes to actual towing capacity, especially with AI and the fact that anyone can write or post anything on the internet without verification or authenticity. What I do know is that I have been working with the RV Safety and Education Foundation (RVSEF) for the past 25 years and trust them to be the authority when it comes to weights and towing. They have been weighing rigs for over 3 decades and working with tire manufacturers, RV manufacturers, and original equipment manufacturers (OEM) to develop weight information and even convinced the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA) to require weight stickers on all units.

There still are towing guides published by Woodall’s, Good Sam, and the truck manufacturers however, they are estimates at best and do not take into account payload, cargo, and passengers. In fact, the towing capacity listed is for a standard truck with a driver of 150 lbs! According to RVSEF you need to know the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) of your truck as well as the tongue weight that is on the back axle. Other factors include the GVWR of the truck as well as the GAWR of the rear wheels.

This all means taking the truck and trailer to a CAT Scale and getting it weighed which is not an easy thing to do especially if you are still in the shopping stage. To start with, I went to the RVSEF site that has several towing guides here.

The challenge I had was finding the correct specifications for my truck to look up the information in the various guides. I found the GVWR and GAWR ratings on the data label located on the driver door pillar.

I found the engine size on the label in the engine compartment that stated it was the 5.3L and it is a double door standard bed model. However what I could not find was the axle ratio and the GCWR. I went online and a Chevy source indicated the eight digit of the VIN indicated axle ratio and stated it was the 3.08 axle ratio and had a much lower trailer towing capacity as well as GCWR! To verify, I asked the Executive Director at RVSEF and he stated that most online sources do not take into account all the options and model variations. He stated the true information is found on the options label inside the glove compartment.

Going through all these three digit codes and matching the one to the RVSEF guide I found mine had the 3.42 and according to the owner’s manual, had a trailer towing capacity of 9,200 lbs and a GCWR of 15,000 lbs which I found on line and confirmed in my owner’s manual. Next I needed to weigh both the truck and trailer to make sure I wasn’t overloaded in any of the weight ratings.

Here Are The Numbers That Are Important

GCWR – Gross Combined Weight Rating

The weight of the truck with everyone and everything that will be travel plug the weight of the trailer with all cargo must not exceed the GCWR.

GVWR – Gross Vehicle Weight Rating

The weight of the truck with all passengers and cargo can not exceed the GVWR. Also, the total weight of the trailer loaded with all cargo and water must not exceed the trailer GVWR.

GAWR – Gross Axle Weight Rating

Both axles have a GAWR and must not exceed the poste GAWR for front and rear with all passengers, cargo, and the trailer connected to determine how much weight the tongue of the trailer is applying.

Tongue Weight

Drive off the scale, disconnect the trailer, and weigh the truck or tow vehicle with all passengers and cargo. Subtract this from the original GAWR of the rear axle and this will tell you how much weight is on the hitch which should be somewhere between 10-15% on trailers.

Here were the ratings I found for my truck with a 1996 Salem trailer connected.

Hitched To Trailer

AxleGAWRActual AWR
Front5,000 lbs.3,300 lbs.
Rear7,050 lbs.3,240 lbs.

Trailer weight – 4,340 lbs.
Combined weight, truck and trailer – 10,880 lbs.

Unhitched truck

Front – 3,400 lbs.

Rear – 2,580 lbs.

Hitch weight or payload from trailer – 660 lbs.

The scale has three platforms which allows you to put the front axle on the first pad, the drive or rear axle on the second pad, and the trailer on the third which provides individual weights. This confirms that you are not over any of the weight ratings and can safely tow.

I also took the comprehensive RVSEF Matching Truck To Trailer Training Course here.

I would recommend anyone towing a trailer take the course and they are offering a discount for RV Lifestyle and Repair and Coach-Net members by using this code: RVLRTOW24

About the author: Dave Solberg: Managing Editor, RV Repair Club

For the last 25 years, Dave has conducted RV maintenance and safety seminars, developed dealer and owner training programs, written RV safety and handyman articles authored an RV handbook reference guide, and logged over 100,000 miles on the road in an RV.

RV Repair Club

RV Repair Club is your go-to online resource for enthusiasts who want quality RV maintenance, repair and upgrade information – a community where passionate RVers can come together to gather knowledge and share their experiences.

Learn more about RV Repair Club.

Ray M. ~ “We’ve had a service plan with Coach-Net with 2 different RVs and we’re so glad we do.  Twice in less than a month, we’ve called with tire issues.  Both times your representative helped us to get back on the road in a short amount of time.  Thank you from two happy campers.”

A Guide To Lassen Volcanic Camping

16 Thursday Nov 2023

Posted by in Travel Destinations

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My family just finished with a whirlwind tour of several California national parks. This was a fantastic experience and we adored every single park we visited. That said, Lassen Volcanic National Park stood out from the rest, and since that visit, I have been recommending Lassen National Park camping to everyone.

Considering a visit to California and want to visit this park yourself? Here is everything you need to know to plan the perfect Lassen Volcanic National Park camping trip.

When to Go

First, it’s important to know that while this park is open year-round because it is at such a high elevation, this place sees tons of snow in the winter. The snow causes huge sections of the park to be closed in the winter and even well into the spring, as the large amounts of snow take a while to melt.

Because of this, we recommend visiting Lassen in the summer or early fall. This will ensure you get to see all of the park. It’ll also help ensure you have the best weather possible while you explore.

Where to Stay

While it is possible to drive an RV as you explore this park, we don’t actually recommend it. Parking lots can get really busy, and many are on the smaller side. On top of that, we found that there were some steep climbs that many rigs likely wouldn’t do so well with.

Instead, we recommend finding Lassen National Park camping spots to park your RV at before you go exploring. Not only will this make exploring easier, but it’ll also give you a chance to stay for a few days so you can see and do everything.

Manzanita Lake Campground

The first RV campground option we want to mention is the official Lassen National Park camping area: Manzanita Lake Campground. This one is run by the National Park Service and is quite nice.

It’s located right by Manzanita Lake, which is great for kayaking and fishing, and the sites are well-spaced and shaded. There are no hookups at the campsites, but potable water, pay showers, flush toilets, laundry facilities, and a dump station are all available.

Mud Lake Trailhead

Hoping to boondock on your Lassen Volcanic National Park camping trip? You’re in luck! The park is surrounded by Lassen National Forest, meaning there are dispersed camping options nearby.

One of our favorite dispersed camping options near Lassen is Mud Lake Trailhead. This one is just up the road from Manzanita Lake Campground and is large enough for most RVs. No, it doesn’t include any amenities, but it is free and in a great location, so it’s a win in our book.

Hat Creek Resort and RV Park

If you need to have hookups, we recommend turning to Hat Creek Resort and RV Park. Unfortunately, this park can be a little tight, but overall it is a good home base for a few days.

The sites have full hookups and the staff is kind and helpful. There are sports courts and a game room onsite, and campers have access to the water. Other amenities include clean restrooms with showers, an onsite store, and laundry facilities.

What to Do

Once you figure out where to stay during your Lassen Volcanic National Park camping adventure, the next question is what to do. Honestly, there are so many things to see and do in this park that one could easily stay busy for a week or more.

Here are some of our favorites.

Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center

We highly recommend starting your visit at the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center. Here, you can watch a very informative park video to orient yourself. There are also exhibits about the park, as well as a well-stocked gift shop, a water bottle refill station, and restrooms.

Sulphur Works

Sulphur Works is a quick stop but is one worth making. Check out bubbling mud up close and look out over several other geothermal features from the sidewalk. (Mind the signage about staying on the sidewalk too, because that boiling mud can and will burn you.)

Bumpass Hell

Bumpass Hell was the highlight of our trip to the park and is a must-do while visiting Lassen Volcanic National Park. To get there, you have to take a ~1.5-mile hike, mostly uphill. From there, you can see the incredible field of geothermal features from above.

For a closer look, continue walking down into Bumpass Hell and follow the boardwalk across the field, marveling at the steaming and bubbling happening all around you as you go.

Boiling Springs Lake

Another bizarre place that you really should visit if you have the time, Boiling Springs Lake is a lake of water that contains underwater steam vents. These vents cause the water temperature to sit right around 125 degrees (°F) and the steam rising off the water is otherworldly.

Manzanita Lake

Lastly, we highly recommend spending a bit of time out on Manzanita Lake. This lake is lovely, and as mentioned before, it is an ideal place for kayaking or fishing. Keep your eyes peeled for river otters, which are sometimes spotted here, but keep your distance, as otters can be aggressive.

Hopefully, this guide helps you get started as you plan your Lassen Volcanic National Park camping trip. We know you’re going to love it!

About the author: Chelsea Gonzales

Chelsea has the amazing opportunity to take part in full-time RV living and traveling with her tiny tribe. She homeschools her five-year-old son as they travel, and takes full advantage of their unique situation by using the entire world as her son’s classroom. A group of total Disney fanatics, Chelsea and her family often find themselves in the Orlando area in order to visit the Disney parks, but they have also visited over 25 of the 50 states with plans to see many more along the way. No matter where her travels take her, Chelsea enjoys riding bikes, gazing at beautiful sunsets, finding new coffee shops, Irish dancing, and sitting around a campfire with her family.

You can join her adventures through her blog, Wonder Wherever We Wander.

Don H. ~ “You were able to fix my issue over the phone! amazing!”

8 Tips For RVing In The Desert

01 Wednesday Nov 2023

Posted by in RV Safety, The Great Outdoors

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It may still be hot summer weather right now, but winter will be here before you know it, and it’ll be time to take your RV to warmer places. And one of the best options for this? Camping in the desert!

Yes, camping in the desert is a wonderful thing when the weather in most of the rest of the country is chilly and gray. That said, there are some things you should know before you go. If you’re planning a desert camping trip this winter season, be sure to keep the tips below in mind.

Know When to Go

First, it’s important to note that the time of year you go camping in the desert is key. As mentioned above, the desert is a wonderful place to be in the winter, when it is sunny and wonderfully warm compared to the vast majority of other places. On the flip side, the hot summer months are far from comfortable, and camping in the desert during that time of year could even be downright dangerous.

For this reason, we highly recommend planning your trip for wintertime. If you must visit in summer, make sure you book a site with electrical hookups so you can run your A/C.

Drink Lots of Water

Even in the winter, the desert is a very dry place. This, coupled with the warmer weather, can easily lead to dehydration.

Since nobody wants to feel the effects of dehydrating while trying to enjoy an RV getaway, we suggest always carrying a bottle of water and keeping a way to refill your bottle close at hand. Sipping water throughout the day (rather than drinking it only when you’re thirsty) is absolutely the way to go.

Wear Sunscreen

Camping in the desert during the cooler winter months does not mean you’re safe from the sun’s rays. These rays are especially powerful in the desert where shade is hard to find and the terrain often reflects the light back up at you.

For this reason, sunscreen and sunglasses are desert camping essentials that you should wear every single day you’re there.

Bring the Right Clothing

The right clothing can also make all the difference in the world. Lightweight, light-colored clothing is best. A good hat with a wide brim will provide you with shade when there is no natural shade to be found, and dressing in layers will ensure you stay warm when the temperature drops suddenly as soon as the sun goes down.

Protect Those Feet

If you’re anything like me, you probably spend a huge percentage of your time barefoot. It’s supposed to be healthy for your feet and it certainly is more comfortable. Unfortunately, it’s also a bit hazardous when you’re camping in the desert.

This is because the desert is home to all kinds of prickly plants as well as plenty of snakes and other critters. Stepping on these plants and animals at all wouldn’t be good, but doing so without shoes on is even worse.

Be Aware of Critters

Speaking of snakes, it’s important that you are aware of what kinds of animals you might find while camping in the desert so you can be properly prepared.

For instance, the desert is home to rattlesnakes. Generally speaking, these snakes will leave you alone as long as you don’t bother them, but you definitely want to watch your step so you don’t disturb them. Coyotes, cougars, and scorpions are other creatures you’ll want to watch out for.

Pack a Source of Shade

As mentioned above, shade is hard to come by in the desert. Therefore, we recommend packing your own source of shade so you can enjoy the outdoors without sitting in full sun. Your RV awning should work nicely for this, but if you don’t have an awning on your RV, a stand-alone canopy can do the same job.

Prepare for Dust

Last but not least, we must mention the dust. The desert is probably the dustiest place you will ever camp, and that dust likes to get into everything.

Put your electronics into cases to protect them. You’ll also want to put out an outdoor rug—as well as a tub of water for rinsing your feet before entering the RV—to try to reduce the amount of dust that gets tracked inside. When you’re finished with your desert camping adventure, make sure to replace the air filters on your vehicle(s) and your generator, as well as your air conditioner filter.

Hopefully, these tips for camping in the desert help you have a safe and wonderful time exploring one of the most beautiful parts of the USA. Now pack up the camper and get ready to make some great memories!

About the author: Chelsea Gonzales

Chelsea has the amazing opportunity to take part in full-time RV living and traveling with her tiny tribe. She homeschools her five-year-old son as they travel, and takes full advantage of their unique situation by using the entire world as her son’s classroom. A group of total Disney fanatics, Chelsea and her family often find themselves in the Orlando area in order to visit the Disney parks, but they have also visited over 25 of the 50 states with plans to see many more along the way. No matter where her travels take her, Chelsea enjoys riding bikes, gazing at beautiful sunsets, finding new coffee shops, Irish dancing, and sitting around a campfire with her family.

You can join her adventures through her blog, Wonder Wherever We Wander.

~Ralph Playdon ~ “This is my first time using your services and I am blown away.”

Reduce & Remove Mold & Mildew In Your RV

04 Wednesday Oct 2023

Posted by in RV Information, RV Safety, Tips & Tricks

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Mold and mildew can form on several RV surfaces such as the roof material, awnings, and exterior sidewalls. It can also be found inside cabinets, around the toilet, and shower stalls. The growth of mold and mildew is primarily influenced by 3 factors: moisture, warmth, and organic materials for them to feed on. It grows by tiny spores that start invisible and typically float through the air land on wet surfaces and then begin to grow and darken.

Here are some common ways mold and mildew can form on the interior of RVs:

High Humidity And Condensation

RVs are often exposed to high humidity levels, especially when used in areas with a lot of moisture, like when near lakes or rivers. The moisture in the air can condense on cool surfaces inside the RV, providing an ideal environment for mold and mildew to grow.

Water Leaks

Leaking roofs, windows, or plumbing can introduce water into the RV’s interior. If not promptly addressed, this moisture can accumulate in hidden areas, such as inside walls or under flooring, and lead to mold growth.

Poor Ventilation

Inadequate ventilation can also trap moisture inside the RV, especially in bathrooms and kitchens where steam and humidity are common. Proper ventilation, like using roof vents and opening windows, can help reduce moisture buildup. This is especially important during storage when condensation can occur with temperature changes.

Tips To Reduce Mold and Mildew On Interior Surfaces

Reduce interior moisture such as wet clothing, cooking, and condensation. Identify what might be adding moisture to the air such as showers, boiling water for cooking, and wet clothes or towels hanging in the bathroom. Make sure all surfaces are clean and dry such as shower curtains, and countertops, and don’t leave any items standing around wet such as dishes. Increase airflow with roof vents and fans, and use dehumidifiers such as damp rid or even portable units. Open cabinets and closet doors to allow more air circulation.

This winter I tried a renewable dehumidifier called H2Out in a Thor Challenger and it was outstanding. They have different sizes that cover anywhere from 25 sq ft to 900 sq ft and all you need to do is put them in an oven to dry out the proprietary beads.

We put a couple of the 600 sf models in the bedroom and a couple in the living room with the cabinets open and had no condensation and zero mold!

Exterior Mold

Mold represents a type of fungal growth that adheres to dirt on surfaces, and once it reaches the black stage, eradicating it becomes notably challenging. Furthermore, it has the potential to cause permanent staining on roofing materials, especially rubber membranes. This underscores the significance of not only periodically cleaning rubber membranes like TPO and EPDM but also conditioning them.

Since fiberglass roof material is flat, it is less likely to house dirt, dust, and moisture like the rubber membrane which has pockets and can produce a perfect environment for mold to form.

Preventative Maintenance

Periodically clean the roof with Dawn Dish Soap and water by parking the rig on a slanted driveway for moisture runoff. Make sure the ladder is at the back or high point so you can get down safely when done.

Put a ¼ cup of Dawn in a 5-gallon bucket of water and fill it with warm water. Have someone periodically spray down the sides of the rig so no chalk or dirt from the roof sticks to the sidewall and windows. Using a mop or foam brush on a stick, start at the front spray a 4’ corner with a hose, and mop it down. Rinse it off and move over to the right side. Doing this in 4’ sections and working your way to the back ensures you are always walking on dry material.

Removing Existing Mold

If your roof material already shows signs of mold and mildew buildup, I would first start by cleaning it with Dawn Dish Soap and if it needs more treatment, you can use a variety of products including over-the-counter bathroom products such as Tilex Mold Remover or Mold Armor. For years I have used a ¼ cup of bleach in 5 gallons of water and it has worked very well, however, some people claim bleach is not environmentally friendly and will harm the environment and sewer systems. I have worked with our local Department Of Natural Resources (DNR) and Sanitary District and they stated that 1/4 cup mixed in one gallon of water and then diluted by 15 gallons of water would not affect a septic system. It would need to be 3/4 cup in every gallon to qualify as too powerful a solution.

I have also used Trisodium Phosphate (TSP) found in the paint section of home improvement stores, however, several states have banned this product but I do see TSP alternatives.

Awnings

Another exterior material that can develop mold and mildew is the vinyl and acrylic fabric used in awnings. Once again, the mold is attaching to dirt, dust, and moisture on the material, not the material itself so it is important to periodically clean the awning material as well using the same Dawn Dish Soap. The main culprit when it comes to awnings and mold is rolling the awning up when it is wet, or letting it sit out long enough to develop condensation. Periodically cleaning and letting it dry completely is the best way to prevent mold and mildew on awning fabric.

Remember, keeping your RV mold and mildew-free is not only about maintaining a comfortable and healthy living environment but also ensuring the longevity of your RV’s materials. By taking these preventive measures and addressing issues promptly, you can enjoy your RV adventures with peace of mind and a clean, mold-free space. Happy RVing!

About the author: Dave Solberg: Managing Editor, RV Repair Club

For the last 25 years, Dave has conducted RV maintenance and safety seminars, developed dealer and owner training programs, written RV safety and handyman articles authored an RV handbook reference guide, and logged over 100,000 miles on the road in an RV.

RV Repair Club

RV Repair Club is your go-to online resource for enthusiasts who want quality RV maintenance, repair and upgrade information – a community where passionate RVers can come together to gather knowledge and share their experiences.

Learn more about RV Repair Club.

Joan M. ~ “The entire process couldn’t have been more seamless. We have used other roadside programs in the past and none of them have lived up, that’s why we went with Coach-Net! There is no comparison! We absolutely recommend you to everyone!’’

An RVers Guide To Camping In The Mountains

03 Tuesday Oct 2023

Posted by in The Great Outdoors, Travel Destinations

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An RV adventure in the mountains is an absolutely amazing thing! There’s nothing quite like fresh mountain air, and the altitude allows you to escape the summer heat. Additionally, the scenery up on a mountain really can’t be beat.

Yes, if you’re considering camping in the mountains, we highly recommend it. That said, we also recommend you do a bit of research and preparations beforehand.

Here’s what you need to know before you go RV camping in the mountains.

Know Your Rig’s Abilities

First, it’s important that you make sure your RV can safely make it up the mountain you intend to climb (and back down again). Generally, this shouldn’t be a problem, but if you have an older gas truck or weighed-down motorhome that struggles even on flat roads, taking it up a steep mountain road may not be your best bet.

Time It Right

Higher-elevation campsites are extremely cold and snowy during the winter months and can even stay cold well into the spring. For this reason, we think summer is the very best time to go camping in the mountains. The nights will still be chilly even in July, but you’ll have beautiful daytime temperatures and we find the weather is perfect for dry camping.

Download a Map

Because cell service can be spotty when in the mountains, you’ll also want to download your GPS map for the entire area to avoid getting lost as you wind your way down the mountain roads. It doesn’t hurt to carry an old-fashioned road map as well, just in case the GPS somehow fails you. Being lost in a rural area is no joke and something you will absolutely want to avoid.

Go In with Tools

Ensuring you have adequate directions to your campsite is one way to prepare for camping in the mountains, but it’s far from the only step you should take. We also recommend packing plenty of tools in case of a breakdown or broken parts. Carrying extra parts can be helpful if you know acquiring those parts will be difficult in the area you plan to visit.

We also recommend taking a book of matches, as lighters do not always want to cooperate at higher elevations.

Get Roadside Assistance

While it isn’t likely that you go in prepared, it is still possible that you will experience vehicle issues you can’t deal with on your own while camping in the mountains. In these cases, Coach-Net roadside assistance is incredibly valuable. Be sure you sign up for the program before you hit the road so you can travel with ease of mind.

Carry Water

It’s easy to become dehydrated when at higher altitudes. To avoid this problem, be sure you take plenty of drinking water when you head out, especially if you’ll be dry camping, as you may not have easy access to potable water. Carrying a water bottle as you drive through the mountains—and when you go hiking or enjoy other outdoor adventures—is also recommended.

Take Alternatives to Appliances

We mentioned above that lighters have a tough time lighting at higher elevations. The same is true for propane appliances. Therefore, those who will be boondocking and plan on using their RV fridge in propane mode might want to grab a cooler in case the fridge decides not to work properly.

It’s also a good idea to take an alternative way to cook in case the stove and oven won’t light. A charcoal grill is good for this, as is cooking over an open fire. Just know you might have a harder time keeping the campfire going.

Go Easy on Yourself

Lower oxygen levels at high altitudes can make it really difficult to participate in strenuous outdoor activities. Top that off with a bout of altitude sickness and you won’t be able to do anything for a couple of days.

For this reason, we recommend avoiding making plans for the first couple of days of your trip into the mountains in case you need to rest and let your body adjust. While resting, be sure to drink plenty of water and take acetaminophen and anti-nausea medicine as needed.

Despite the challenges it brings, we truly do believe camping in the mountains is a worthwhile adventure. Simply heed the advice above and you should be able to enjoy a safe and wonderful trip into the beautiful mountains of North America.

May include affiliate links.

About the author: Chelsea Gonzales

Chelsea has the amazing opportunity to take part in full-time RV living and traveling with her tiny tribe. She homeschools her five-year-old son as they travel, and takes full advantage of their unique situation by using the entire world as her son’s classroom. A group of total Disney fanatics, Chelsea and her family often find themselves in the Orlando area in order to visit the Disney parks, but they have also visited over 25 of the 50 states with plans to see many more along the way. No matter where her travels take her, Chelsea enjoys riding bikes, gazing at beautiful sunsets, finding new coffee shops, Irish dancing, and sitting around a campfire with her family.

You can join her adventures through her blog, Wonder Wherever We Wander.

Debra R. ~ “I wouldn’t be back on the road without Coach-Net!”

How To Go Beach Camping The Right Way

12 Tuesday Sep 2023

Posted by in RV Safety, The Great Outdoors, Travel Destinations

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Want to give beach camping a try? We can’t say we blame you. Who wouldn’t want to listen to waves lapping the sand from their bedroom, or hitting the sand as soon as you wake up each morning?

All that said, there are some things you should know before you go beach camping. In this article, we will give you our top tips.

Find a Camping Area

The first thing you need to do is find a place to go beach camping. Fortunately, this should be easy enough to do. There are beach campgrounds in pretty much every state that has a coastline, and many of these offer sites with ocean views to boot. If you choose to go this route, your trip will be similar to other RV camping trips, and many of the tips below will not apply.

On a budget? It’s also possible to find free beach camping in certain parts of the US. Texas has a number of dispersed camping areas on the beach, and many national seashores offer free boondocking by the water. That said, you will want to be very cautious if you do choose free camping on the beach, as camping in the wrong place could result in being stuck in sand—or worse, being caught in water at high tide. The tips below will help you avoid these problems.

No matter which kind of beach camping you prefer, you can use Campendium to find awesome spots along the coasts.

Invest in Roadside Assistance

We always recommend getting Coach-Net roadside assistance before any trip. However, we think it’s even more important than usual if you happen to be going beach camping. This is because roadside assistance can help you if you do find yourself stuck in the sand.

Grab Some Solar Panels

Because most beaches don’t have trees, they are perfect for soaking up the sun’s energy. For this reason, we highly recommend installing some solar panels and a good battery bank before you try boondocking on the beach. Don’t want to install an entire solar system on your RV? Even a solar generator will do the job!

Create a Rinsing Station

The amount of sand that can make its way into an RV while you’re beach camping is astounding. To avoid this, set up a rinsing station outside your door with a small tub of water and a portable shower. If you happen to have an outdoor shower near the front door, that will work even better.

Know How to Drive on Sand

One of the most important things to know before beach camping directly on the sand? How to drive on that sand. When you don’t know what you’re doing, it can be very, very easy to get yourself stuck in the beach sand.

To avoid this, let a small amount of air out of your tires before you hit the beach (and carry an air compressor to air them back up after). Before you drive onto the sand, walk the path you plan to take to ensure there are no soft areas.

If you do get stuck, don’t spin your tires. Instead, get out, dig your tires out as much as possible, pour water on the sand around the tires, pack it down a bit, and use traction boards to give yourself something to drive onto. If this doesn’t work, a tow-out might be your only option.

Look Out for High Tide

The other important thing to keep in mind when beach camping? The tide. You definitely don’t want to get caught in the way of the tide, so be sure to ask a lifeguard, ranger, or other person in the know where you can park safely, even when the tide is in. Parking near other RVs is typically a safe bet.

If the tide starts to get close to your rig, get out as soon as possible. The water moves in quickly, so you won’t have a lot of time.

With these tips and a bit of common sense, you should be able to safely try your hand at beach camping. Still don’t feel great about parking on the sand? Choose a beach campground instead. This will give you the beach camping experience without all the hassle.

May contain affiliate links.

About the author: Chelsea Gonzales

Chelsea has the amazing opportunity to take part in full-time RV living and traveling with her tiny tribe. She homeschools her five-year-old son as they travel, and takes full advantage of their unique situation by using the entire world as her son’s classroom. A group of total Disney fanatics, Chelsea and her family often find themselves in the Orlando area in order to visit the Disney parks, but they have also visited over 25 of the 50 states with plans to see many more along the way. No matter where her travels take her, Chelsea enjoys riding bikes, gazing at beautiful sunsets, finding new coffee shops, Irish dancing, and sitting around a campfire with her family.

You can join her adventures through her blog, Wonder Wherever We Wander.

Micheal P. ~ “My wife and I are glad we signed up with Coach-Net. Everyone made us feel important and special! The service was outstanding all around. Thank you again for making us feel valuable, and resolving our problem with a sense of urgency.”

6 Things Every RVer Should Know About Caring For RV Slide Toppers

09 Wednesday Aug 2023

Posted by in Tech Tips

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RV slide toppers—these RV accessories are very common, but rarely discussed. Most RV owners don’t pay their slide toppers much mind at all until the toppers start giving them trouble.

We’re hoping to use this article to help educate RV owners everywhere about RV slide toppers. Here, we will discuss what exactly RV slide toppers are, as well as the maintenance required to keep them in tip-top shape.

What is an RV Slide Topper?

Before we go further, we should take a minute to discuss what slide toppers are. As you might have guessed, slide toppers literally top the slide. They are small awnings that jut out over each RV slide-out, protecting it from rain, hail, and debris.

They’re nice because they can help prevent the water leaks that slide-outs are infamous for. They also provide protection from the sun’s rays, helping keep your rig cooler and helping seals last longer.

Not all RVs have slide toppers though. If your rig doesn’t have them and you’d like to install a set, you should start with an RV slide topper kit like this one.

Keep Your Toppers Clean

Whether your RV slide toppers were installed aftermarket or came standard with your RV, the first step toward ensuring they last a long while is keeping them clean.

Be sure to brush any debris off before retracting the slide awnings, so that sticks and other pointy objects don’t damage the fabric. You’ll also need to clean the fabric every few months with a long-handled brush and some water mixed with dish soap in order to remove dirt and tree sap.

Try to Let the Awning Fabric Dry

If at all possible, before pulling the slide toppers in, try to let the awning fabric dry after cleaning and/or rainstorms. This shouldn’t take a long time and it will help protect your RV slide toppers from developing a layer of mold or mildew, something that is nearly impossible to get rid of.

Need to break camp in the rain? Consider putting the slides back out when you get home to let the toppers dry before you put the RV into storage.

Pull RV Slide Toppers In During High Winds

Strong winds can cause some serious damage to RV slide toppers. Not only will they blow the fabric around—potentially leading to tears—but they can also cause branches to fall from trees, something that can damage both the slide toppers and the slides themselves.

Since these are things you certainly don’t want to be dealing with while trying to enjoy a camping trip, we strongly recommend pulling your slides and slide toppers in when high winds roll through.

Note: It also doesn’t hurt to pull the slides in if heavy hail begins to fall.

Check Your RV Slide Toppers for Tears

Over time, awning fabric starts to wear out, making it very easy to tear. For this reason, it’s good to keep a close eye on the fabric, especially after a few years of use.

Each time you go to retract your slide toppers, make sure to do a quick inspection for tears. If you do find a tear, repair it with some awning tape before you pull the slide in, as retracting the awning with a tear can actually cause further damage.

Replace RV Slide Topper Fabric as Needed

No matter how well you care for your RV slide toppers, there will come a time when the fabric really does need to be replaced rather than just repaired.

The good news? This is a job you can likely do yourself with the help of a friend or family member. Better yet, most replacement RV slide topper fabric is thicker and more durable than the topper fabric they use in the RV factories, meaning you should get even more life out of your RV slide toppers once you replace the fabric.

The video below gives easy-to-follow instructions on replacing your RV slide topper fabric.

There you have it! Everything you need to know to take excellent care of a set of RV slide toppers. Be sure to add these tasks to your RV maintenance list so you can continue to enjoy the benefits of these awesome RV accessories for years to come.

May contain affiliate links.

About the author: Chelsea Gonzales

Chelsea has the amazing opportunity to take part in full-time RV living and traveling with her tiny tribe. She homeschools her five-year-old son as they travel, and takes full advantage of their unique situation by using the entire world as her son’s classroom. A group of total Disney fanatics, Chelsea and her family often find themselves in the Orlando area in order to visit the Disney parks, but they have also visited over 25 of the 50 states with plans to see many more along the way. No matter where her travels take her, Chelsea enjoys riding bikes, gazing at beautiful sunsets, finding new coffee shops, Irish dancing, and sitting around a campfire with her family.

You can join her adventures through her blog, Wonder Wherever We Wander.

Sandra L. ~ “Both times we’ve had to call Coach-Net, they have been very friendly, compassionate, and helpful. This last time the representative even called me back to say he talked to his manager and they would help us even more by paying part of the second service call fee. Unexpected and amazing!”